let the cat out of the bag

Register · Informal Informal — used in casual, everyday conversation among friends and family. Avoid in formal writing or professional settings. CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

To reveal a secret, usually by mistake.

Why this phrase?

Said to come from market traders deceptively swapping a pig for a cat in a sack.

Example

“He let the cat out of the bag about their engagement.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

pull someone's leg Informal · CEFR B1

To tease or joke with someone by telling them something untrue in fun.

spill the beans Informal · CEFR B1

To reveal a secret, often accidentally.

behind the scenes Neutral · CEFR B2

happening privately or secretly, not in public view

come to light Neutral · CEFR B2

to become known or be discovered, especially something hidden

give the game away Informal · CEFR B2

to accidentally reveal a secret or plan

butter someone up Informal · CEFR B2

to flatter someone in order to gain a favour

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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